As cannabis becomes more mainstream, new users are exploring a wide variety of ways to experience it. Gone are the days when smoking a joint was the only option. Today, cannabis-infused beverages—ranging from teas to sodas to tinctures—are gaining popularity, especially among beginners. But is drinking weed actually better than smoking it for someone just starting out?
Let’s break it down.
Understanding the Basics: Smoking vs. Drinking Cannabis
Smoking cannabis involves inhaling the active compounds—mainly THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) and CBD (cannabidiol)—into your lungs. It provides a near-instant effect, typically within minutes. The high tends to peak quickly and then taper off over 1–3 hours.
Drinking cannabis, whether as an infused tea, soda, or sublingual tincture, introduces THC into your body through digestion or absorption under the tongue. Beverages that go through the digestive system take longer to kick in (30 minutes to 2 hours), but the effects often last longer—up to 4–6 hours or more.
Pros of Drinking Weed for Beginners
1. Easier on the lungs
One of the biggest benefits of drinking cannabis is avoiding the health risks associated with inhaling smoke. For those who are health-conscious, have asthma, or simply don’t like the idea of smoking, beverages offer a cleaner alternative.
2. More controlled dosing
Cannabis drinks often come with clearly labeled THC and CBD content. This makes it easier for beginners to start with a low dose (2.5–5mg of THC) and gradually increase if needed. With smoking, it can be harder to gauge how much you’re actually consuming.
3. Discreet and convenient
Not everyone wants to light up a joint in public or at home. Beverages are discreet, odor-free, and can be consumed almost anywhere—just like a regular drink.
4. Longer-lasting effects
While the delayed onset can be a downside for some, many appreciate the long-lasting, mellow high that beverages provide. This can be great for evening relaxation or managing stress and anxiety over a longer period.
Potential Drawbacks of Drinking Cannabis
1. Delayed onset
The biggest challenge for new users is being patient. Because it can take up to two hours to feel the full effects, some people end up consuming too much too quickly—leading to an overwhelming experience.
2. Harder to adjust on the fly
When you smoke and feel too high, you can usually stop immediately. With beverages, once you’ve ingested THC, there’s no turning back—you have to ride it out.
3. Availability and cost
Cannabis drinks can be more expensive than flower or pre-rolls, and they may not be as widely available depending on where you live.
Why It Might Be Better for New Users
Overall, drinking cannabis is often better suited for beginners because it offers a gentler introduction to THC without the harshness of smoke. It’s also easier to control the experience through measured dosing. However, the key is to start low and go slow. A 2.5mg THC drink is a great entry point—just wait at least 90 minutes before deciding whether to consume more.
For those completely new to cannabis, choosing a beverage that balances THC with CBD can also help mellow the psychoactive effects and provide a more relaxed, manageable high.
Conclusion
Both smoking and drinking cannabis have their pros and cons, but for beginners looking for a smoother, more controlled, and lung-friendly experience, drinks can be an excellent starting point. Just remember: patience is key, and moderation is your best friend. With the right product and mindset, your first cannabis experience can be both safe and enjoyable.
